Md. Republican Party remains saddled with debt, report shows

The Maryland Republican Party is starting the election year still saddled with debt and at a major financial disadvantage compared to the state's Democrats.

The GOP reported having less than $14,300 in cash sitting in two state accounts as of mid-month -- with about $147,000 in unpaid bills and outstanding loans. The party reported just $264.37 in a separately maintained federal account.

The Maryland Democratic Party, by contrast, had more than $900,000 banked in those corresponding three accounts and reported no debts. A spokesman said cash on hand has actually grown to about $950,000 in the weeks since the report was filed.

The state parties traditionally use their money to identify likely voters and help get them to the polls during election years.